Mavericks forward Josh Howard agreed to a
four-year, US$40 million contract extension Thursday through the
2010-11 season.
Howard will play for $1.6 million this season, the last on his
existing contract. Howard said he did not want to test the
free-agent market after the season.
``I'm glad it's done,'' Howard said before Dallas' pre-season
game Thursday night against Milwaukee. ``I knew I wanted to stay
here as long as I could. Now I want to continue to play hard and get
better.''
Last season, his third in the NBA, Howard averaged a career-high
15.6 points and 6.3 rebounds to help the Mavericks to the most
successful season in their history before losing to the Miami Heat
in six games in the NBA Finals.
Talks between Howard's representatives and owner Mark Cuban had
bogged down over the summer, but Cuban said it was important to get
a new deal finalized with a key player like Howard before the
regular season got underway.
``Josh has worked hard and he's an important part of the team,''
Cuban said. ``We're glad to get it done.''
Howard was no sure thing when he was drafted by the Mavericks
with the 29th overall selection in 2003, but the Wake Forest product
has developed into one of the league's best young players.
``It's a blessing for me and my family,'' Howard said. ``I love
the city, love the fans, and enjoy playing here. I'm going to be the
same guy no matter how much money I make.''
